The poem was designed to make you smile but it’s subject is
more serious, and something that you should consider if you have any family
pets that could outlive you. These days, pets are as much a part of the family
as any person so it’s important that they be considered in your estate
planning.

The elements you should consider are:

Who you would like to look after your pets

Whether you need to make financial provision for
their upkeep (e.g. food or vet’s bills)

The specific needs of the animal e.g. some types
of parrot have a life expectancy of 60 years so an elderly beneficiary may not
be best

There are a couple of ways you can chose to look after a pet
even after you have gone. One way is to leave money in your Will for the
specific purpose of looking after them; another is to create a special type of
trust (a Trust of Imperfect Obligation) so called because the object of the
trust cannot influence it. On top of these options it is advisable that you
write a letter of wishes for the beneficiary to outline what you would like
happen and how your pet should be cared for.

Of course, if there is no one suitable you can also consider
leaving your pet to the care of a suitable charity which will give you the
peace of mind that everything will be done to rehome your beloved pet should
anything happen to you. Charities that do this include the RSPCA Home for Life Scheme,
the Dogs Trust Canine Care Card and Cats Protection Cat Guardians Service.

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